Between the end of the season, the start of the season and the start of construction: new developments at Matterhorn Paradise

The first change is the earlier closure of the Nord downhill run on 12 April. This is due to construction work starting immediately after the end of the season to provide access to the building site. The construction of the new Patrullarve chairlift this summer will also affect the offerings in the Sunnegga–Blauherd area. For safety reasons, the Kickbike experience cannot be offered during the chairlift construction phase. However, the other summer activities will largely remain in place: the Rothorn, various themed hiking trails and the adventure playground at Leisee will continue to be available to guests, ensuring an attractive summer programme in the Sunnegga–Blauherd–Rothorn area.

Sunnegga-Express maintenance work 
Extensive maintenance work will be carried out on the Sunnegga-Express funicular this spring. This will involve waterproofing work in the track tunnel. In a second phase, the underbodies and supporting structures of both carriages will be refurbished. This work is necessary to ensure the long-term reliability and smooth operation of the system. Due to this maintenance work, the start of summer operations on the Sunnegga-Express funicular is expected to be delayed until 13 June. Depending on the progress of the work, it is planned that the funicular will be able to open on key weekends such as Ascension Day and Whitsun.

Modernisation of the Trockener Steg – Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car 
The cable car between Trockener Steg and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise has recently undergone extensive modernisation. The system’s control system, which was over 25 years old, has been completely replaced and brought up to the latest technical standards. As part of the work, the entire drive system has been renewed. The cable car is now powered by an asynchronous motor and controlled via a frequency converter. This conversion improves the system’s efficiency whilst reducing maintenance requirements. In addition, the emergency drive has also been replaced, thereby ensuring the long-term availability of spare parts once again. This is because the reversible cable car, built in 1979, is of vital importance to Zermatt Bergbahnen – not only for transporting guests during maintenance periods of the Matterhorn Glacier Ride I, but above all for logistical reasons. It transports around 900 tonnes of water and materials to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise every year. A remarkable achievement! 

The modernised cable car cabins are the most noticeable change for guests. During the refurbishment work, the two cabins were dismantled and upgraded at CWA Constructions SA in Olten. At the same time, they were repainted and now shine in the signature Zermatt Mountain Railways blue. In addition, the door mechanisms were replaced and the interior was adapted to meet accessibility standards. The cabins now feature a designated space for guests with reduced mobility. These measures ensure the facility is modernised sustainably and equipped for the future, whilst also enhancing comfort for guests.